It's a Girl!

The Birmingham Zoo proudly announces the birth of its latest family member. Early Monday morning, a female, reticulated giraffe was born. Both mother and baby are doing well. The new arrival is nursing and appears to have bonded with its mother, Juno. Both giraffes are on exhibit in the Savannah area of the Zoo.

This is the second offspring for almost 8-year-old Juno. The father, Morefu, is twenty-three years old.

Giraffes are the world’s tallest land mammal and can grow up to 17 feet tall. They have very keen vision and hearing. Giraffes can run 30-35 miles per hour and can jump over obstacles 5-9 feet high. Giraffes give birth to their offspring standing up, which means that the newborn has an approximate 6 foot fall upon birth.

Join us in welcoming our newest family member!

Naming Contest for Baby Giraffe

Visit the Zoo to submit your name suggestion today! The entry forms are located in the Zoo’s Membership Office.

Deadline for submissions is August 13, 2008. The winner will be announced on the Zoo's website on August 15, 2008.

The winner will receive the following:

• Behind-the-Scenes tour for five individuals of the Savannah area of the Zoo, including giraffe feeding

• Giraffe Adoption in the winner’s name, which includes giraffe fact sheet, giraffe plush, and photo

• Zoo t-shirt